Latvia's population declined by 15,500 people in 2025

Latvia's statistics office reported that the country's population fell to 1.845 million by the start of 2026. This represents a decline of 15,500 people over the course of the year.

Latvia's population has continued to shrink – according to statistics office data, the country had 1.845 million inhabitants at the beginning of 2026, which is 15,500 fewer than a year earlier.

Population decline is a long-term problem for Latvia, stemming from both natural decrease and emigration. The number of residents in the country has been falling steadily for decades, as young people leave in search of better job opportunities and a higher standard of living in other EU countries.

Demographic challenges are affecting Latvia's economy and social infrastructure severely – labour market tightening increases pressure on the pension system and requires the country to adapt to a smaller and ageing population.